Brasilia opening race ticket sales brisk
Tony Kanaan, who this past weekend added a Rolex 24 At Daytona victory to his list of racing accomplishments in the U.S. and his native Brazil, said he's already counting the days until the No. 10 NTT DATA car hits the fresh pavement of the 3.403-mile, 12-turn circuit.
A major capital improvement project under the direction of Terracap – the state – and federally-owned district development agency of Brasilia – at the permanent road course that opened in 1974 includes reconfiguring some corners to increase the racing excitement for spectators and challenge for drivers. It is progressing as scheduled.
"To me, it means a lot and all my friends are there," said Kanaan, the 2013 Indianapolis 500 winner and 2004 Verizon IndyCar Series champion. "It's a dream come true again. It's a different venue, a different city and we have a chance to show another part of Brazil that people might not know and I'm excited for it."
The promoter expects continued strong sales, including half-price tickets for students (mandatory in Brazil), through race week. Fans can order tickets online at www.livepass.com.br/Indy.
Added three-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves, a native of Sao Paulo: "Brazilians are very proud of their sports heritage, including motorsports. I know it will be a great event at a new venue for us in the capital of Brasilia, the Autodromo Internacional Nelson Piquet, named after one of our greatest drivers. I love racing in my native country and I hope to be the winner." IndyCar.com